Hudson–Fulton Celebration
The Hudson–Fulton Celebration from September 25 to October 9, 1909 in New York and New Jersey was an elaborate commemoration of the 300th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s discovery of the Hudson River and the 100th anniversary of Robert Fulton's first successful commercial application of the paddle steamer. The maritime achievements of Hudson and Fulton foreshadowed the importance of the river to New York's progress and identity. Organizers used the event not only to display the success of the two men, but also the status of New York City as a world city and the achievements of its citizens.
Hudson–Fulton Celebration program
Hudson–Fulton Celebration New York City, commemorative stamp, 1909 Issue
Wilbur Wright (back to camera) and mechanic Charlie Taylor fix a canoe to the Wright A Flyer used during the Celebration.
Halve Maen
Robert Fulton was an American engineer and inventor who is widely credited with developing the world's first commercially successful steamboat, the North River Steamboat. In 1807, that steamboat traveled on the Hudson River with passengers from New York City to Albany and back again, a round trip of 300 nautical miles, in 62 hours. The success of his steamboat changed river traffic and trade on major American rivers.
An 1806 portrait of Fulton by Benjamin West now housed at the Fenimore Art Museum in Cooperstown, New York
A drawing of Fulton's invention Nautilus
Fulton's 1806 submarine design for the U.S. government
An 1803 bust of Fulton by Jean-Antoine Houdon